#winter hydration

There is that undeniable nip in the air these days that signals the arrival of the winter season. Despite being aware of the importance of staying hydrated, water consumption dips in the winter months, as you tend to sweat less. But less water in your system may translate into a host of niggling issues, from that persistent headache and sluggishness to dry itchy skin and a compromised immune system. 

Ample hydration is vital to ensure that your biological systems are functioning well. But the good news is that downing glass after glass of water is not the only way to stay hydrated. In this blog, we introduce you to 10 hydrating foods for winter that you can consume, to hit your hydration goals.

Ways to stay hydrated during winter

Even if you do spend most of your time indoors, the dry climate and lack of ample hydration can wreak havoc on your skin and body. Although the warmth inside may make you feel warm and cozy, it sucks hydration from your skin leaving it dry and itchy. 

Winter is a time when your thirst levels go down considerably. This is also the time when you must check for dehydration symptoms, which are easy to overlook. Your body uses water to maintain its core temperature and when hydration levels are low you begin to feel cold. So here are some solutions to the question of how to keep yourself hydrated during winter

1. Carry a water bottle

Always carry a refillable water bottle with you and sip from it at consistent intervals. Download a fancy app or use a good old pen and paper to help you keep track.

2. Add a flavor

If plain water is not palatable, add some refreshing ingredients like cucumber, herbs, or your favorite fruits to jazz it up.

3. Limit sugar

Avoid or limit sugary beverages such as soda, energy drinks or too much coffee, as the caffeine content and sugar in them tend to be dehydrating.  

4. Go for warm drinks

Opt for warm drinks like green tea or warm lemon water, which are both comforting and nourishing.

5. Eat a lot of veggies

Fill your plate with fruits and vegetables high in water content and snack mindfully between meals, trying to include water-rich fruits instead.

10 foods that will increase your hydration levels this winter.

Water is not the only medium of hydration you can resort to. Here are some foods that you can stock up on to solve the problem of how to stay hydrated during winter.  

1. Bananas

This often underrated fruit which is available year-round in our country, is a powerhouse of nutrients. It contains essential minerals and vitamins like potassium and magnesium. These act as electrolytes and help keep your body hydrated and nourished. So next time snack on a banana to up your hydration levels and keep cravings at bay.

2. Spinach

This unassuming superfood is a winter hero, loaded with lutein, potassium, fiber folate, and vitamin E. Spinach is also a water rich leafy vegetable with more than ninety percent water. So, consuming spinach, while being excellent for your skin and hair, also helps your body to remain hydrated during winters. Include it as part of your main meals, toss up a refreshing salad, or whip up a healthy smoothie or soup. The options are endless.

Related Reading: Benefits of Drinking Water in Maintaining Healthy Skin, Hair, and Nails.

3. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a staple in all Indian kitchens and are used extensively in our cooking. But did you know that this versatile fruit is made up of almost ninety percent water. Consuming this helps your body stay hydrated from within. The best part is that you can even consume tomatoes in its raw form as a salad or as a juice.

4. Bell peppers

These bright and colorful vegetables add a pop of color to any dish you make with them. They are also extremely water-dense and help you stay hydrated. They also come loaded with Vitamin C, vitamin B6, beta carotene, thiamine, and folic acid. 

5. Cauliflower

This versatile vegetable which has been made popular with keto diets, is a winter favorite in many households across the country. It can be converted into soups, salads, curries and is loaded with water. It is estimated that a cup of chopped cauliflower will provide you with up to 50 ml of water. 

6. Olive oil

You must be aware of the benefits of cooking your food using olive oil by now. It is rich in Vitamin E, good fats, etc., and helps moisturize your body from within. The application of oil on your skin also does wonders to soothe dry, itchy skin and keep it healthy and glowing.

7.Eggs

They are one of the healthiest foods you can consume anytime and winter is no exception. They provide protein and healthy fats which help in collagen regeneration as well as Sulphur and lutein, which help with skin elasticity and hydration. So, start your day with a healthy breakfast of eggs and your body will thank you for it. 

8. Fruits

Fruits that are low in sugar, but high in water content are your best bets for snacking this winter. So, load up on blueberries, strawberries, kiwis, etc. as they provide you with vitamins and nutrients to keep your body healthy, while also ensuring you stay hydrated.  Snack on some cut fruits or toss a handful of frozen berries into your oatmeal or smoothie to ramp up your hydration game.

9. Healthy drinks

Instead of reaching out for sugar-laden cans of cola or pumping more caffeine into your system, try sipping on warm lemon water infused with honey or brewing yourself a warm cup of green tea. These not only hydrate your body, but will also provide that warming comfort we crave in winter.

10. Oatmeal

This nourishing grain is a breakfast staple for a reason. Besides providing a warm and comforting meal it is also a great way to increase your water content. Oatmeal contains soluble and insoluble fibers which helps you remain satiated for a longer time and encourage bowel movements.

Conclusion

Hydration is essential for your body to function optimally, irrespective of the season. While you may automatically reach out for that glass of water in summer, winters may bring down your water consumption drastically. Winter is the best time to experiment with various wholesome foods that are not only tasty and healthy but will also increase your hydration levels. So go ahead and stock your pantry with this winter’s goodness to remain healthy and glowing this winter.